It’s not surprising that, since they’re such integral parts of our lives, dogs are also part of our individual family histories, and the stories that come from them. When families get together for birthdays, holidays or just for fun, these stories tend to be trotted out and enjoyed once again by everyone. Here’s one we found enchanting, and we’re pleased to share it. Send us your family-dog photos and stories: familydog@thebark.com.

At Ray Quesada’s childhood home, there was always room for one more dog. As his daughter, Chrissy Quesada Valentine, tells us, most of the family photos of her father and his sisters include a pooch, usually one they’d found or who had followed them home. Here’s Ray with Freckles in about 1934 on the front porch of the family home in Wilmington, Calif.